Dash reward key midfielder Becky Edwards with contract extension

Published 9:06 pm, Friday, August 15, 2014

Houston Dash Becky Edwards (14) lines up a shot against the Portland Thorns in the first half on May 14, 2014 at BBVA Compass Stadium in Houston, TX. Portland won 1 to 0.

Houston Dash Becky Edwards (14) lines up a shot against the Portland Thorns in the first half on May 14, 2014 at BBVA Compass Stadium in Houston, TX. Portland won 1 to 0.

Photo: Thomas B. Shea, For The Chronicle

Dash reward key midfielder Becky Edwards with contract extension

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Central midfielder Becky Edwards, who has arguably been the Dash's Most Valuable Player this season, signed a contract extension to remain in Houston.

The contract gives the tenacious Florida State graduate much appreciated stability as she begins a two-month loan next Thursday with Kristianstads DFF of the Swedish Damallsvenskan.

"I'm excited," she said. "It's the first time really in my pro career. I've been from team to team every year, so to be in Houston for another year is exciting. I know kind of what I'm getting myself into. I know Randy (Waldrum) as a coach. I know Brian (Ching) and Chris (Canetti).

"I know we have a great organization. I'm just excited to come back. I know the city of Houston. I hope to build off this first year. On the field it wasn't the results we were hoping for. But for being an expansion franchise it was decent. I'm excited to see how next year will go for us."

Edwards, 26, has been the Dynamo's iron woman this year by playing every minute of the season, making a successful recovery from a torn left knee ACL that derailed her 2013 campaign with the Portland Thorns. Terms weren't released on the deal.

"Becky's leadership, the professionalism, the way she carries herself around the other players—especially with such a young team—she's been invaluable not only on the field but off," Waldrum said. "She brings a calmness and composure to our midfield, and she's great in the air defensively.

"If we continue to work on her game and being a little more dynamic, I think this is a player that's already one of the best in the league and I think we can still take her game to a higher level. Really, really excited that we got her re-signed and committed to us."

She will leave the Dash on Tuesday to fly to Sweden to begin her loan agreement. The Dash will conclude their inaugural season Wednesday night against Sky Blue in New Jersey.